In one of the most surprising moments of the off-season so far, the Panthers actually made a remarkably shrewd move, trading for Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Carolina’s offensive issues were well documented last season, with the array of “skill” position players struggling to provide reliable production for rookie Bryce Young. Johnson immediately steps into a key role in an offense which should improve from last year’s lowly standing. Let’s dive into it and talk about 2024 Dynasty Target: Diontae Johnson
Player Overview
In Johnson the Panthers have acquired a productive receiver – a good route-runner who constantly gets open, something quarterback Bryce Young sorely needed in his rookie campaign. Over his five seasons in Pittsburgh, Johnson earned just over eight targets per game.
His stock and production may have fallen away since his Second team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections in 2019 and 2021 respectively, but he has remained a solid option in fantasy in recent years. After a bizarre touchdown-less 2022 season, Johnson recorded 717 receiving yards and five touchdowns from his 51 receptions and 87 targets across 13 games. As a result he has now hit double-digit PPR points per game in each of his last four seasons.
Player Summary
At his current supressed price, Johnson presents dynasty managers with a reliable, low-cost option. The former third-round pick has been a fairly consistent wide receiver in fantasy in recent years.
After seeing the ghost of Adam Thielen provide several weeks of high-end fantasy production, Johnson should be in line to provide managers with a dependable flex option at the very worst. His production should outpace the current cost, while he is also likely to benefit from any steps forward Bryce Young can take to show why he was a number 1 pick in the NFL draft (it can’t get much worse, can it?!). Johnson looks to be a low-risk bet worth making, particularly for competitive teams.
Trade Value
Johnson has seen his value fall quite considerably over the last two seasons. His average draft position in dynasty superflex leagues has now dropped into the 100s, according to Dynasty League Football’s (DLF) May ADP.
Per DLF’s trade analyzer, his value stands around a late 1st/early 2nd 2024 rookie pick. There is evidence, however, that he can be acquired for much less. Three examples all in the last month in DLF’s trade finder are as follows:
- Diontae Johnson for 2.07
- Diontae Johnson for Brian Robinson
- Diontae Johnson for 2.09 and 3.01
Quite understandably after last year, the value of Panthers players remains subdued. In 2023 Carolina finished last in passing yards and passing DVOA, as well as joint-last in offensive points scored. Yet with the arrival of head coach Dave Canales after successful stints in Tampa Bay and Seattle, there should be some quiet optimism of growth this coming season.
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